Mick Normington, Business Specialist for the Labor Market Division of the Texas Workforce Commission, spoke to a group of Central Texas business professionals on Thursday, April 30, 2015 at the Workforce Center in Killeen.  While he had a great deal of information to convey, one of his key points is that Texas is going strong.  Every night, Mick has special software scanning all of the online job postings in all regions of the state.  Demand has spiked in the Central Texas area for managers, supervisors, and degreed individuals.

Mick Normington at the Workforce Center in Killeen

In addition, there are three categories that are a direct reflection on the health of the economy:  truck driver, registered nurse, and human resources/training.  Truck driver openings reflect a strong economy because they suggest an increase in manufacturing as those goods have to be shipped once they are made while the need for registered nurses reflects an increase in population.  Lastly, an increase in human resources/training positions suggests that management is feeling confident in expected economic growth.  HR and training positions are always the first eliminated when belts need to be tightened therefore seeing an increase in job openings is very communicative of growth.

Key trends that Mitch believes are integral to future success in business revolve around a multi-generational workforce.  In the not too distant future, the workforce will consist of four generations which, unfortunately, are not very good at communicating with each other.  Mitch believes that one of the best ways to learn how to do a job is by listening and watching others.  If this communication gap continues, it will result in a big knowledge transfer problem.  He suggested, in order for an employee to have a big advantage, that person should establish a relationship with someone older and someone younger where they work.

Mick Normington Sharing Unemployment Statistics

Finally, to those who know young people heading off to college, Mitch had these words, “Math equals money!  It’s that simple.”  The more math classes a student can master means more earning potential in the future.  Technical skills also mean more income.  On top of these, students need to master concise communication skills.  It is no longer sufficient to be able to communicate…that communication must now be concise.

For more information, contact Mick Normington, Texas Workforce Commission, Mick.Normington@twc.tx.us .